Elevation with Steven Furtick: "Before & After" – Detailed Summary

Release Date: February 28, 2025

In the episode titled "Before & After," Pastor Steven Furtick delves deep into the transformative journey of faith, exploring the themes of preparation, obedience, and divine validation. This sermon challenges conventional perceptions of Jesus, portraying Him as a "savage" figure who confronts injustice and embodies unyielding faith. The discussion is enriched with historical references, biblical insights, and practical applications for listeners navigating their spiritual wilderness.

1. Introduction to the "Savage Jesus" Series

Steven Furtick introduces his new sermon series, "Savage Jesus," aiming to redefine the commonly sanitized image of Jesus. He expresses frustration with the tendency to present Jesus as overly gentle or complacent, emphasizing that this portrayal often strips away the powerful and confrontational aspects of His character.

• Quote: "I'm tired of us pretending like Jesus is safe." [01:49]

2. Breaking Down Historical Legacies

The conversation shifts to honoring influential figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Dr. Robert DeMoss, highlighting their roles in dismantling systemic barriers and advocating for justice. Furtick underscores the importance of remembering these leaders for their courageous actions, not just their quotable moments.

• Quote: "It's good that we take a little time this week to share some of his quotes about heaven, but what he did here on earth in bringing heaven to earth and driving back darkness." [03:30]

3. Jesus as a Confrontational Leader

Furtick paints Jesus as a forceful leader who actively challenged societal injustices. By recounting biblical events where Jesus overturned tables and expelled corrupt authorities from the temple, he illustrates Jesus's willingness to confront and rectify wrongdoing.

• Quote: "This Jesus was more than free hugs and warm feelings. Jesus was... a savage." [06:54]

4. Exploring Mark's Gospel: Preparation and Validation

Delving into the Gospel of Mark, Furtick discusses the significance of Jesus's baptism by John the Baptist. He emphasizes the concept of "before and after," where Jesus's obedience precedes divine validation, challenging the notion that validation should come before action.

• Quote: "Before he ever performs his first miracle, the Heavenly Father speaks a word of validation." [26:22]

5. The Journey from Obedience to Peace

A critical theme in this sermon is the relationship between obedience and experiencing God's peace. Furtick argues that true peace from God follows acts of obedience, rather than preceding them. This counters the common desire for immediate reassurance before taking necessary steps of faith.

• Quote: "Peace comes after obedience." [19:21]

6. Application: Navigating Personal Wildernesses

Furtick relates the sermon's themes to personal struggles, referring to life's "wilderness" moments—times of testing and uncertainty. He encourages listeners to trust in God's plan and maintain obedience even when immediate validation or peace isn't apparent.

• Quote: "If God has put you in a wilderness situation today, this could feel lonely. This could be emotional. This could be in your body." [43:27]

7. The Power of Faith Before Understanding

Highlighting the essence of faith, Furtick stresses the importance of believing in God's promises before fully understanding or seeing the outcomes. This faith journey is likened to Jesus's experience, where validation from God came post-obedience.

• Quote: "Maybe faith is believing before you see it." [43:50]

8. Conclusion and Prayer

The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer, reinforcing the sermon's messages. Furtick and his co-pastor invite listeners to commit to obedience, trust in God's plan, and embrace the transformation that follows faithful action.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. "I'm tired of us pretending like Jesus is safe." – Steven Furtick [01:49]
2. "It's good that we take a little time this week to share some of his quotes about heaven, but what he did here on earth in bringing heaven to earth and driving back darkness." – Steven Furtick [03:30]
3. "This Jesus was more than free hugs and warm feelings. Jesus was... a savage." – Co-Pastor or Associate Speaker [06:54]
4. "Before he ever performs his first miracle, the Heavenly Father speaks a word of validation." – Steven Furtick [26:22]
5. "Peace comes after obedience." – Steven Furtick [19:21]
6. "If God has put you in a wilderness situation today, this could feel lonely. This could be emotional. This could be in your body." – Co-Pastor or Associate Speaker [43:27]
7. "Maybe faith is believing before you see it." – Steven Furtick [43:50]

Key Takeaways

• Redefining Jesus: Embracing the multifaceted nature of Jesus, acknowledging His confrontational and transformative actions.

• Obedience Over Validation: Prioritizing obedience to God over seeking immediate approval or peace, trusting that divine validation will follow.

• Navigating Life's Challenges: Understanding that periods of struggle are preparatory phases for fulfilling one's divine purpose, requiring steadfast faith and obedience.

• Faith in Action: Encouraging believers to act in faith without waiting for tangible signs of God's presence, thereby experiencing deeper spiritual growth and peace.

Conclusion

"Before & After" serves as a compelling invitation to reconsider traditional perceptions of Jesus and to adopt a faith rooted in obedience and trust. Steven Furtick's powerful narrative urges listeners to engage actively with their faith journeys, embracing the "savage" aspects of divine purpose that lead to profound transformation and fulfillment.